The superb parrot, also known as Barraband's parrot, Barraband's parakeet, or green leek parrot, is a parrot native to south-eastern Australia. It is a dimorphic species and one of three species in the genus Polytelis.
Region
South-eastern Australia
Typical Environment
Found primarily in New South Wales (south-west slopes and Riverina), the Australian Capital Territory, and northern Victoria. It breeds in river red gum forests and woodlands along the Murray, Murrumbidgee and Lachlan river systems, using large tree hollows for nesting. After breeding, flocks disperse to surrounding box–gum woodlands, farmlands, and roadside corridors. It frequents open country with scattered eucalypts and can visit orchards and paddocks. Occurrence is patchy and tied to availability of mature hollow-bearing trees and seasonal food.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
Also called Barraband's parrot, the superb parrot is a striking, sexually dimorphic parakeet confined to south‑eastern Australia. It nests almost exclusively in large hollows of river red gums along major inland rivers, making it sensitive to the loss of mature trees. Outside the breeding season it forms mobile flocks that roam farmland and open woodlands in search of seed. Conservation actions focus on protecting nest hollows and riparian forests.
Restored habitat for the Superb parrot on an abandoned railway line
Temperament
social and active but wary
Flight Pattern
strong flier with swift, direct flight
Social Behavior
Breeds in loose colonies, with several pairs nesting in proximity within river red gum stands. Pairs are monogamous and nest in deep tree hollows, often close to water. Outside the breeding season they form small to medium-sized flocks that commute between roosts and feeding areas and may join mixed-species aggregations in productive habitats.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Calls are clear, ringing whistles and mellow, bell-like notes given in flight and from perches. Contact calls are soft and musical, while alarm notes become sharper and more insistent.
